Jimmies fans watch championship win from on campus watch parties
Dec. 8—JAMESTOWN — While many University of Jamestown fans went down to Sioux City, Iowa, to support the Jimmies women's volleyball team, many stayed in Jamestown and attended the two watch parties the school was hosting on campus.
"The watch parties in Jamestown and socials that took place down in Sioux City was a way our department was able to give back to all those who support Jimmie athletics and the University of Jamestown," said Bryce Nybo, UJ director of alumni relations. "While both the socials and watch parties took some considerable organization and effort to coordinate, our development and alumni relations department was honored to do so for our Jimmie faithful."
The Jimmies got a hard fought five set win over Corban University to win the school's first-ever national championship on Tuesday, Dec. 6.
When the final point was scored, those in Newman Arena rose out of their seats in celebration to cheer on the victorious Jimmies from afar.
The watch parties were run by Jimmies coaches including head softball coach Kevin Gall, head baseball coach Tom Hager and assistant baseball coach Ryan Illiff at the Hansen Center. The other watch party was hosted by the alumni relations department at Harold Newman Arena.
"I wouldn't have missed it. I would've liked to been down there but this is the next best thing," Sharon Dunaway said. "So I could be here at UJ cheering them on."
Many stayed back because of work or the weather, with one of those being Kendra Rachel.
"Even though I couldn't make it to Sioux City, Iowa, due to work I cheered as much as I could with other fans," Rachel said.
The fans who stayed behind to watch the Jimmies bring home the championship banner were not disappointed as the team took down Corban University in a five-set thriller.
"I think the girls did a fantastic job," Blaine Schulz said. "I can't believe they did this and me and my girlfriend are really proud of them and they're just a fantastic team."
While it is unclear yet how the school plans to honor the champions, the people at the watch parties were already dreaming of where to put the banner. Schulz said he would put the banner next to one scoreboard inside Newman Arena. Dunaway said she can't wait to see the banner.
"That'll be a great addition to have here," Dunaway said.
Nybo said about 75 people saw the Jimmies capture the national title at the Newman Arena watch party.
"We were all thrilled at the attendance of our watch parties and socials and hope to throw more this year for Jimmie athletic teams," Nybo said.
